About Chemical Peels
A chemical peel involves applying a carefully selected solution to the skin to exfoliate and remove the outermost layers, stimulating cell turnover and collagen production. Peels can address a range of concerns including fine lines, acne scarring, sun damage, and uneven skin tone. The type, strength, and depth of your peel will have been chosen based on your individual skin type and goals.
Your recovery experience will vary depending on the depth of your peel. Where instructions differ, your clinician will advise on what applies to you.
Post-treatment instructions
Follow these steps to support your recovery and results:
- Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser regularly to keep the skin hydrated and ease dryness or tightness — this is especially important during the peeling phase.
- Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily and avoid direct sun exposure for at least 2 weeks. Reapply every 2 hours if outdoors, even on overcast days.
- Do not pick, scratch, or peel the skin — allow natural shedding to occur. Picking increases the risk of scarring and infection.
- Avoid exfoliating or active skincare products until the skin has fully healed, including retinoids, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs.
- Avoid makeup for the first 24–48 hours. Once you resume, use non-comedogenic products suitable for sensitive skin.
- Avoid heat and excessive sweating for at least 48 hours — including vigorous exercise, hot showers, saunas, and steam rooms.
- Stay well hydrated to support your skin's healing process.
- Attend any follow-up appointments as recommended by your clinician.
What to expect after your treatment
Recovery will vary depending on the depth of your peel. The following are all normal:
Lighter peels (e.g. Synergie Skin AHA/BHA Exfoliating Peel)
- Mild redness, similar to a light sunburn — typically fades within a few hours
- Minimal peeling or flaking, most noticeable from days 2–3
- Mild dryness or tightness
- Full recovery typically within 3–5 days
Medium to deeper peels (e.g. SkinCeuticals Glycolic 20 Peel)
- More noticeable redness that may persist for a couple of days
- Moderate to significant peeling or flaking from days 2–3, which may last 5–7 days
- Possible mild swelling or stinging, particularly in the first few days
- Increased dryness and tightness during the healing period
- Full recovery may take up to 7 days or longer
Managing possible risks
Redness and sensitivity Some redness is expected across all peel depths and typically fades within a few hours to a couple of days.
- Keep the skin moisturised and avoid heat and sun exposure, which can prolong redness.
- Avoid active skincare products until sensitivity has fully resolved.
Peeling and dryness Peeling is a normal and expected part of the process, typically beginning around days 2–3.
- Do not pick, scratch, or force off peeling skin — this can cause scarring or infection.
- Apply a gentle moisturiser regularly to ease dryness and support natural shedding.
Swelling or stinging Mild swelling or a stinging sensation can occur, particularly with medium to deeper peels.
- This is temporary and typically resolves within a few days.
- A cool compress may provide comfort if needed.
When to contact us
If you have questions or concerns regarding your treatment, please contact Avery during business hours (call 02 4002 4150). If you have a concern out of business hours, please send an SMS to the out of hours Avery phone (0499 352 954); or visit your nearest emergency department. Your health and well-being is our priority.
Seek urgent care if you experience any of the following:
- Excessive redness or swelling that is worsening rather than improving
- Blistering or broken skin
- Signs of infection (pain, pus-like discharge, or fever)
If you would like to talk to your Clinician about your skin health journey so far, please book a complimentary 15-minute follow up consultation by calling the clinic on 02 4002 4150.
